Honey Sesame Chicken
This Honey Sesame Chicken recipe is a delicious and quick weeknight meal combining the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s sticky, flavorful, and perfect with rice or steamed veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp cornstarch for coating
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil for cooking
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger minced (or ¼ tsp ground ginger)
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds toasted
- Green onions chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes optional, for a hint of spice
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken pieces in a mixing bowl and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated. This will help the chicken develop a crispy exterior when cooked.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add half of the chicken pieces (to avoid overcrowding) and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Repeat with the remaining oil and chicken, then set aside all cooked chicken.
Make the Honey Sesame Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until combined.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet over medium heat and allow it to simmer for 3–5 minutes, until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the honey sesame sauce.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and stir until everything is well mixed.
Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped green onions and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or with your favorite side dishes.